KPMG in Qatar has appointed Venkat Krishnaswamy as Country Senior Partner, effective 1 October 2026. Krishnaswamy will succeed Ahmed Abu Sharkh, who has led KPMG in Qatar for the past 11 years.
Abu Sharkh will continue with KPMG in Qatar as Head of Advisory. He will also remain a member of the firm’s leadership team.
The firm said the transition forms part of its long term leadership succession plan. Abu Sharkh will continue to provide strategic continuity while maintaining client and stakeholder relationships.
Venkat Krishnaswamy brings 15 years of partner experience
Before taking the Country Senior Partner role, Krishnaswamy served as Partner and Head of Advisory at KPMG in Qatar.
He brings more than 15 years of experience as a Partner at the firm. During this time, he has advised boards and senior management across government and private sector clients.
Krishnaswamy’s areas of expertise include deal advisory and financial services. He also has experience in strategic client engagement.
According to KPMG in Qatar, his experience includes a deep understanding of the firm’s people, clients, and markets.
KPMG in Qatar outlines leadership priorities
As Country Senior Partner, Krishnaswamy will lead KPMG in Qatar into its next phase of growth and development.
In his statement, Krishnaswamy said his priorities will include investing in people and strengthening collaboration across the firm’s businesses. He also identified innovation and sustainable growth as areas of focus.
KPMG in Qatar said the transition reflects its approach to succession planning, stewardship, and sustainable growth.
Krishnaswamy said he intends to build on the foundation established during Abu Sharkh’s leadership. He also acknowledged Abu Sharkh’s contribution to the firm and his continued support.
“I am honoured to take on this responsibility and to build on the strong foundation established under Ahmed’s leadership,” Krishnaswamy said.
He added that KPMG in Qatar has a highly talented team, a respected market position, and longstanding relationships. His stated focus will be on creating lasting value for clients, employees, and communities across Qatar.
Ahmed Abu Sharkh to continue as Head of Advisory
Abu Sharkh has led KPMG in Qatar for 11 years. During that period, his leadership focused on quality, integrity, and long term relationships with clients and stakeholders, according to the firm.
His move to Head of Advisory will allow him to remain part of the firm’s leadership team. He will also continue to contribute his experience and institutional knowledge.
Abu Sharkh said he was confident in KPMG in Qatar’s position for the future. He also said he would work with Krishnaswamy, the firm’s partners, and leaders across KPMG Global.
KPMG in Qatar has operated for more than 45 years
KPMG in Qatar has operated in the country since 1978. The firm currently has more than 350 professionals and 10 Qatar based partners.
Its workforce includes more than 30 nationalities. KPMG in Qatar works with public and private sector organisations across most of Qatar’s core industries.
KPMG is a global organisation of independent professional services firms. Its member firms provide audit, tax, and advisory services across 145 countries and territories.
KPMG in Qatar is part of the network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International.
Krishnaswamy will assume the Country Senior Partner role on 1 October 2026. Abu Sharkh will continue as Head of Advisory as the firm’s leadership transition takes effect.
